It is the most celebrated shot in basketball. It is the dream of the average player and it is an in-your-face “statement” that a good player makes to the other team. It is the slam dunk. We all understand WHAT it is, and we all WISH we could do it. But how do you dunk a basketball?

Before We Get Started

Before an ordinary player should start thinking about dunking, he should take an inventory and be realistic. A player’s height and his athletic abilities are the 2 key factors in determining if he will ever be able to dunk. Not to say that it’s not possible, but there are few 5-6 players that will ever be able to jump high enough to dunk. In fact, even a six foot player will have to have above-average jumping ability in order to be able to dunk. Be realistic in your goals. At the same time, don’t limit how high you can jump before you even try. Many people have made amazing increases in their vertical jumping ability. It takes hard work, but it will be worth it.

Things that should be evaluated before you start:

1.) Is your height a difficulty? You can’t change this. You CAN increase] your vertical [jump, but you still may never be able to dunk. But, that is okay! You should develop other aspects of your game.

2.) Are you overweight? By carrying more weight than you should, you are limiting your jumping ability.

3.) How athletic are you in general? Some players just have the “gift” of being able to jump. You can develop it as well, but understand where you are starting. Measure your vertical leap before you begin. This will show how you are advancing.

4.) Are you in good physical shape? Jumping involves muscles from the whole body. Just having strong legs alone is not the answer.

Let’s Get Started

Start by making sure you are in the best overall shape you can be. This includes every area of your body as well as your legs. To ensure you can reach your ultimate jumping potential, you need to be in good shape overall. You use your entire body while jumping, so it only makes sense that your whole body needs to be in shape. While this is not the most glamorous part of the process, it is necessary. A solid basis is needed for the best results. Start with this and you will be rewarded for your efforts.

To get the most out of your vertical jumping exercises, you ought to think about a vertical jump training program. Check out these Vertical Jump Program Reviews to check which are rated the best and to find more information on Improving Your Vertical Jump.